Local and state police stumbled upon what they believe to be a methamphetamine lab while searching an Auburn home for child pornography.

Derek A. Ransom, 30, of 11 Bylund Ave., Auburn, was held on $20,000 cash bail after being arraigned today in Central District Court on two counts of child pornography, according to District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. Arrest warrants were lodged late this afternoon for manufacture and possession of a Class B drug (methamphetamine).

Ransom was arrested Thursday night after detectives assigned to the District Attorney’s Office, Auburn Police and investigators from the Department of Homeland Security/ICE executed a search warrant for his home and computers, according to a news release from the district attorney's office. The Commonwealth's Department of Fire Services Hazardous Materials Response Team also responded to the scene then, according to the Auburn Fire Department.

"While making the arrest, police discovered a bucket filled with chemicals consistent with the manufacture of methamphetamine.

After securing the residence, investigators applied for and were granted a search warrant for evidence of a drug lab in the home. They searched the home today and discovered drug evidence.

The child pornography charges stemmed from an investigation by the State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force."

Ransom was held on bail and his case was continued to Feb. 21, according to the district attorney. If he posts bail, Ranson has been ordered not to access the internet, not to use or view computer monitors or images and have no contact with children younger than 18 years old.

The investigation has been a cooperative effort of local, state and federal agencies, according to Early. Besides the State Police Detectives assigned to the District Attorney’s Office, Auburn Police and DHS/ICE, the investigation has included State Police Crime Scene Services, the State Police Clandestine Lab Team, the State Police Bomb Squad, Boston Police, the Department of Environmental Protection and the Auburn Fire Department.